Family Services Specialist I

Virginia Department of Social Services • Manassas Park, VA

8d

About The Position

A Family Services Specialist I/Intern is an entry-level employee who works under close supervision while receiving training in program areas such as Adult Protective Services, Adult Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/Adoption, Child Care, and CSA. Employees develop and implement individualized service plans and may work across all program areas or specialize in one or more areas. They interpret relevant laws, policies, and regulations and inform clients about program rules, regulations, and their right to participate. The role includes providing after-hours on-call coverage, responding to emergencies in child or adult protective services and/or foster care, conducting home visits, and performing other Family Services duties outside business hours, including weekends and holidays. Participation in community events and engagements is mandatory. Other duties may be assigned.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in a Human Services field, or a bachelor’s degree in any field plus at least two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area, as mandated in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia and implemented by the Virginia Board of Social Services.
• Some knowledge of social work principles and practices, human behavior and motivational theory, and social, economic, and health problems.
• Skill in operating a motor vehicle and a personal computer or laptop with associated software.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; interview, assess needs, counsel, and refer clients; develop and implement service plans; make sound judgments within applicable laws, policies, and regulations; respond appropriately to client emotions; plan and manage work activities, service delivery, reports, correspondence, and records; establish and maintain effective relationships; and stay abreast of developments in social work.
• Willingness to work in the community emergency shelter in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.
• Willingness to participate in a rotating after-hours on-call schedule.

Nice To Haves

• A BSW or MSW degree.
• A Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license.
• Experience in OASIS.
• Experience working in a Local Department of Social Services.
• Internship experience within a local department of social services agency providing direct services to children and families.
• Bilingual English/Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement individualized service plans for clients.
• Interpret laws, policies, and regulations relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
• Inform clients about related service program rules and regulations and their right to participate.
• Provide after-hours on-call coverage and respond to emergencies in child or adult protective services and/or foster care.
• Conduct home visits and perform other Family Services tasks outside business hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Participate in community events and engagements.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level